choosing the right tariff for your heating

You can save money on your fuel bill if you switch to a better tariff.  Different energy companies offer a range of different deals and we've outlined some below that are pertinent to the systems we supply.

general domestic

This is the standard tariff available from all energy suppliers and anyone can get it.  Houses that only use electricity for their lighting or appliances are unable to get any other tariff.  If you use electricity for your heating and depending on how much heating you use at different times of the day, other tariffs may be cheaper for you.

economy 10

If you have an electric boiler or a ground or air source heat pump, the best tariff for you is probably Economy 10.  This tariff will give you a cheaper price for all the energy you use during certain hours (called "off-peak" hours).

With Economy 10 you get 3 hours in the afternoon, 2 hours in the evening, 5 hours over-night.  The time of the "off-peak" hours may vary from supplier to supplier so it's advisable to ask the supplier directly for precise times.

Once you've signed up to Economy 10, it is possible to use "boost" at any time, but it will cost you more if you put it on during peak hours.

Your energy can cost you twice the price during peak hours.  To help you save money, you should try and use your appliances (eg washing machine, tumble dryer, dishwasher) at off-peak hours when your electricity costs less.  Plug-in (or electronic) timers are a great way to help you to do this.

It's not possible to get a card/token meter for Economy 10 but you can use a payment card system.  You should discuss this with your supplier.  Usually a discount is available for payment by direct debit or standing order.

economy 10 - scotland

We've had feedback from customers who tell us they're struggling to get cheaper tariffs from their utility providers.  The following information about SSE Tariff Switching may help clarify some questions about E10 tariff switching.  Remember, this relates to Scotland only and is related to SSE. Customers can arrange a tariff switch by calling free phone 0800 072 7207.  NB. You must state that you have a heat pump system.  Alternatively, call the "Welcomeline" on 0800 22 33 77 to transfer to SSE.

FK10 2NP
TD1 2RP
TD5 7QP
KA9 2RR
KA5 5HL
KA26 9TP
LA26 0RN
KA26 0QB
KA6 5EU
LA26 9QA
DG7 1SN 

Different economy times and rates in Scotland and England!

Recently we've spoken with an SSE customer in Scotland who believed that they were connected to the Economy 10 rate.  It turned out that they were connected to an Economy 10 rate in England so they were only getting about 3 hours lower electricity prices during the day.  You should be very clear with your electricity provider; make sure that they understand where you are in the UK. 

Scottish Hydro and Southern Electric are part of the same group so it can happen that a Scottish customer can be given an English Economy 10 time accidentally and, of course, vice versa.

As at February 2008, the following Economy 10 times from Scottish Hydro/Southern Electric apply.  We believe that in different parts of England, these times vary so it is important that you are absolutely clear with your provider that they understand where you are.  It is however your responsibility to ensure you are connected to the appropriate time and IHS is providing these details as a guideline only.

Please advise your commissioning engineer of your plan agreement at time of commissioning.

staywarm tariff